Bernese Elite The Flamberge Guards and Grand Cavalcade, 1855, Paper

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Bernese Elite – The Flamberge Guards and Grand Cavalcade This exceptional hand-colored lithograph, part of the *Fest Album* published in … Read more Bernese Elite – The Flamberge Guards and Grand Cavalcade This exceptional hand-colored lithograph, part of the *Fest Album* published in 1855 to commemorate Bern’s entry into the Swiss Confederation in 1353, captures the splendor of a historic pageant celebrating Swiss martial traditions. Illustrated by H. Jenny and lithographed by Kümmerly and Wittmer, the image depicts a highly disciplined unit of Bernese soldiers wielding massive *Flamberge* swords, a cavalry officer in full regalia, and a stately procession of armored riders. In the foreground, a row of eight Bernese guards stands in perfect formation, clad in striking red doublets emblazoned with the black bear of Bern. Their striped yellow-and-black leggings and feathered plumed helmets enhance their formidable presence. Each soldier holds an imposing *Flamberge*, a two-handed sword with a distinctive wavy blade designed for superior cutting and intimidation on the battlefield. The meticulous detailing of their expressions and posture conveys unwavering discipline and military prowess. To the right, a mounted officer commands attention, adorned in a flowing red and black tunic with gold trim. His armored chest glistens beneath the fabric as he raises his head in a proud, commanding stance. His dark stallion, draped in a matching caparison, moves with an air of controlled power, embodying the pageantry and prestige of the Bernese military elite. Behind him, a unit of similarly attired horsemen follows in a stately procession, their finely decorated horses carrying them forward in ceremonial grandeur. The composition is dynamic, with a strong contrast between the disciplined rigidity of the standing guards and the fluid motion of the cavalry. The interplay of colors—deep reds, shimmering metallic grays, and the striking gold trim—adds richness and vibrancy to the scene. This print exemplifies the Romantic-era fascination with historical re-enactments, bringing to life a moment of Swiss history with extraordinary precision. Condition Summary: The lithograph is in good condition, with beautifully preserved hand coloring that highlights the richness of the garments and weapons. Minor signs of aging, such as light foxing around the margins, are present but do not detract from the visual impact. The paper remains strong, making this a valuable and well-preserved historical print. Framing Tips: To enhance this print’s dramatic effect, consider a wide mat border in a neutral or dark tone to complement the deep reds and golds of the uniforms. A dark wood or black lacquer frame with gold trim would evoke the period’s regal aesthetic. Using UV-protected museum glass will ensure the longevity of the hand-colored details, preserving the lithograph’s vivid hues for years to come. See less